Mohaamed Ebtehaj (center), a Ph.D student at the University of Minnesota who left Iran two years ago, joined in a protest last week.

(Minnesota Public Radio/Tim Post)

Iran’s universities have historically been sites of protest. Now is no exception -- except the students are not alone. “Iranian students have always been politically active. It’s nothing new. What’s new is it has engulfed so many sectors of society,” said Ervand Abrahamian, a professor of history at Baruch College who has written extensively on modern Iran. “Students obviously are involved, but I wouldn't call this whole opposition to what's happening a student movement. I’m actually quite surprised that the press keeps talking about students.... This draws from all segments of society, professionals, workers in the factories in southern Tehran, people working in shops, stores, women.